Massachusetts Workers' Compensation Lawyer Blog
A Monro Muffler Brake Inc. shop in Portsmouth has been cited by the U.S. Department of Labor’sOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for alleged willful, repeat and serious violations of workplace safety standards.The automotive repair, maintenance and tire company faces potential fines of $221,100 following an OSHA inspection. OSHA’s area director stated, “Willful and recurring violations suggest a disturbing pattern of noncompliance with safety standards that exist to protect the lives and well-being of a company’s employees. Monro Muffler Brake must correct these hazards and take effective steps to address recurring hazards at all its workplaces.”
The willful citation regards workers who were exposed to potential electric shock from exposed, energized wires. OSHA found that the company did not remedy the hazard after knowing of the issue from in-house safety inspections.
A willful violation is one committed with intentional, knowing or voluntary disregard for the law’s requirements, or with plain indifference to worker safety and health. This willful violation carries a proposed penalty of $60,500.
Five repeat citations were issued for defective ladders, unsecured oxygen and acetylene cylinders, and inadequate eyewashing facilities for employees. A repeat violation exists when an employer previously has been cited for the same or a similar violation of a standard, regulation, rule or order at any other facility in federal enforcement states within the last five years. The proposed penalties for these repeat violations are $143,000.
Four serious citations were also issued for obstructed exit routes, improper storage and disposal of combustible material, damaged gas pressure regulators, and inadequately grounded electrical equipment. A serious violation occurs when there is substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result from a hazard about which the employer knew or should have known. These four serious violations carry a proposed fine of $17,600.
Pulgini & Norton, LLP attorneys have handled workers’ compensation claims for over 25 years in and around Boston and its surrounding areas. If you or a family member has been injured at work and would like to seek legal assistance, please contact us at (781) 843-2200 or (888) 344-2046 or email us.
Cited Sources:
Muffler shop faces OSHA fines, Fosters.com, May 21, 2013